Interpreting Laptop Beeps: Repair Tips for Perth Computer Users

When you turn on your computer, you will commonly hear one short beep. If your machine is equipped with an IBM or similar BIOS (Basic Input/Output System), this means that your computer passed its power-on self-test (POST), and that it is booting up normally. A different set of beeps, however, indicates something else entirely, and could mean that you need to take your laptop to a repair centre in Perth.

The POST is a self-diagnostics procedure that your computer performs as it boots. It is done by the BIOS, a firmware that is located in your computer’s motherboard. The BIOS also has a number of other important functions, including the control of the input and output operations of your computer, testing if your hardware is functioning properly, initialising its circuits, and loading your operating system. The BIOS gives a “report” of the result of the POST by giving out a beep or a series of beeps. But because there are many BIOS manufacturers, one set of beeps may mean differently from one brand to another.

You can take note of your computer BIOS so when the need presents itself, you can interpret the beep/s more correctly. To find out, go to Start, then search for System Information. A window will appear – on the left pane, click System Summary; and on the right pane, details about your computer will appear. Scroll down to find your computer’s BIOS version and date.

Since many Windows-based computers use the IBM beep codes, it is wise to know what the most basic beep codes mean. They are:

• No Beep. This means there is no power or a card is loose. Everything is okay.


• One Beep. One beep during start-up means your computer has booted normally, and there was no problem encountered.


• Two Short Beeps. An error was encountered, and the error code can be read onscreen.


• One Long and One Short Beep. There is a problem with the motherboard.


• One Long and Two Short Beeps. There is problem with the video (MDA/CGA).


• One Long and Three Short Beeps. There is a problem with the video (EGA).


• Three Long Beeps. There is an error with the keyboard.


• A Series of Short Beeps/ One Continuous Beep. There is a problem with power supply, keyboard, or system board.

If your computer produces a beep code other than the normal, take note of it and research what it means. Better yet, consult a technician to catch the problem before it gets worse.

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